Law and institutional reform minister Azalina Othman Said said a preliminary comparative research will be held involving the systems being used in selected countries, namely the UK, India, Australia and Singapore.

She said this was agreed by Senator Rita Sarimah Patrick Insol and Selayang MP William Leong during a meeting on judicial reforms earlier today.

The pair lead parliamentary committees on law review and institutional reforms, respectively.

“This research will give us a holistic understanding of the judicial appointments process in countries with similar systems, allowing Malaysia to evaluate the need for reforms and to adapt these best practices according to our nation’s context,” she said.

In a statement, Azalina said the government welcomed the public’s views and feedback on the matter, adding that it would take an inclusive approach given the importance of the topic.

“The government is committed to strengthening public confidence by implementing reforms based on evidence and transparency,” she added.

Pandan MP Rafizi Ramli and several other PKR MPs had called for a royal commission of inquiry and a parliamentary committee hearing following the delays in the appointment of top judicial positions, including that of the chief justice.

Chief Judge of Malaya Hasnah Hashim is serving as acting chief justice following Tengku Maimun Tuan Mat’s retirement, while Federal Court judge Zabariah Yusof is the acting Court of Appeal president after Abang Iskandar Abang Hashim retired last week.

Earlier today, Istana Negara urged all parties against politicising the matter, saying such appointments must be handled carefully, with integrity and in line with the constitution.